New surfers are welcome at local surf locations — not the case at other spots up and down the Cali coastline
TOPANGA STATE BEACH What began as a pleasant morning of riding waves turned ugly fast, with two surfers throwing fists in the water after one cut the other off — a potentially dangerous, and most certainly rude, maneuver commonly referred to as “snaking.”
“What a buzz kill for what seemed to be a good morning session,” said Sam Woolsey, a surfer who was in the water when the fight began. “It is Topanga after all, and there’s usually someone out there with a big mouth and not catching many waves who’s trying to project the image that it’s their break.”
While physical altercations don’t happen often, many surfers warn that a surge in the sport’s popularity combined with the relatively few clean, quality breaks in these waters could spark more conflicts if attention isn’t paid to surfing etiquette.
“With the crowds, people sometimes forget surfing etiquette and it becomes all about the individual,” said Capt. Terry Harvey, a surfer and lifeguard who has patrolled the Santa Monica Bay for a quarter century. “Surfing is an individual sport, but there are plenty of other people out there on the waves and we just have to remind people to be respectful.”
In Malibu, home to some of the best surfing spots in the region, as well as some of the most territorial surfers around, those concerned about safety posted a sign shaped like a surfboard that listed the “surfer’s code of ethics” (the sign has since been removed by state officials because it was not permitted on the beach).
The rules are simple. First and foremost, give respect to gain respect.
“I’ve often found that the mellower, quieter you are, the less your chances are of creating problems with locals,” said Mitch Taylor, a 30-year surfing veteran and manager at the Becker Surf & Sport, a surf shop in Malibu. “The guy that goes out there with a bright pink wetsuit, who’s being really loud and obnoxious, he’s really going to be the guy that everyone wants to drown. Stay under the radar as much as possible, especially if you are learning, and just be respectful, and more often than not, you’ll meet really cool people who are willing to help you.
“These days, more people are willing to help than want to fight and tear you apart.”
Another important rule is to never drop in on another surfer, or “snake” them. Those who are furthest inside or closest to the peak of the wave have the right of way, so pay attention.
When paddling out, paddle wide. If caught on the inside of a wave, stay in the white water. Communication is also key, as is one’s commitment to a wave. When taking off, paddle hard and stay within your ability (Translation: Don’t try to hit the big waves if you’re just a beginner!).
The most important lesson just might be to hold on to your board. A surfboard on the loose can severely injure another surfer.
“Just watch your space,” said Garrett Brizendine, a surfer of 10 years who helps beginners find the right gear at Rip Curl on the Third Street Promenade.
“Santa Monica is usually a good place to learn how to surf,” Brizendine said. “Not only is the break pretty mellow, but there are plenty of people who are willing to lend a hand. Just don’t cut somebody off or do something that puts someone else in harm’s way. That’s when the territorial thing gets dangerous.”
Some beaches that beginners may want to stay away from include Topanga, Silver Strand State Beach near San Diego, Little Dume and Lanada Bay, suggests Taylor.
“Lanada Bay especially,” he added. “That is definitely a place you don’t want to go if you don’t live there. It’s a rough group. In the ’80s, there were stories of people rolling over cars...
“There’s definitely a little bit of surf rage out there still, but it has definitely mellowed out.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on June 9, 2007. Read the original PDF.